PhD in Arts: Eligibility, Admissions 2025, Exams, Fees, Job & Salary

PhD in Arts is a doctorate course for a period of 3 to 6 years, depending on research progress. The course aims to produce a deep understanding of research in various fields of the arts and humanities. The course allows students to engage in original research in disciplines such as History, Philosophy, Literature, Sociology, and Psychology.

To be eligible for a PhD in Arts, candidates must have a master's degree in a related field and a minimum grade of 55%. Some of the popular entrance exams for a PhD in Arts include CSIR-NET and UGC-NET.

PhD in Arts provides candidates with the knowledge in literature, history, visual arts, performing arts, and cultural studies, including research methodology, interdisciplinary approache, and critical theory.  Some of the job roles available for them are Market Research Analyst, Social Policy Analyst, Academic Consultant, and Professor.  

Salaries for fresh PhD graduates are competitive and vary by sector and experience. PhD holders in Arts can expect an average package in the range of INR 6 - 10 lakhs per annum.

PhD in Arts Course Highlights

The basic details of a PhD in Arts are as follows:

What is a PhD in Arts?

A PhD in Arts is an academic program that provides students with the knowledge to conduct original research in a specific field of the arts or humanities. The course provides a deep understanding of literature, history, philosophy, and social sciences. The students pursuing this course are required to do extensive research and to write a thesis.

PhD candidates also explore areas such as ancient civilizations, psychological studies, modern philosophy, linguistic theories, and social dynamics. After completing a PhD in Arts, candidates can become a historian who might research the cultural influences of the Renaissance or can become a sociologist who may explore social media’s effect on contemporary society.

Why Study PhD in Arts?

A PhD in Arts involves the study of human culture, thought, and creativity. Candidates who are interested in research and academia can pursue this degree. Students pursuing a PhD in Arts need to analyze and preserve cultural heritage, provide insights into human behavior, and also solve complex societal issues. After completing a PhD in Arts, one can pursue a career in teaching, publishing, and policy-making.

After a PhD in Arts, one can become an economist or philosopher who can contribute to the field of social justice and economics. A PhD in Arts can provide valuable insights that not only contribute to academia but also lead to real-world changes in society.

PhD in Arts Eligibility

Students should have the following eligibility to take admission in the PhD in Arts

• The candidates must have a master's degree in a related field and a minimum grade of 55%.
• Candidates should have cleared entrance exams like CSIR-NET and UGC-NET.

PhD in Arts Entrance Exams

Some of the popular entrance exams for a PhD in Arts include CSIR-NET and UGC-NET.

Top Colleges in India for a PhD in Arts

Some of the top colleges for a PhD in Arts, based on the NIRF Ranking, are as follows:

PhD in Arts VS PhD Fine Arts

A PhD in Arts provides students with the knowledge of humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The course covers important topics like literature, history, philosophy, sociology, anthropology, and languages. A  PhD in Arts focuses more on broad theoretical frameworks and historical analysis.

After a PhD in Arts, one can pursue a career in academia as a professor or a university administrator. Whereas, a PhD in Fine Arts is more specialized and concentrates on the practical and theoretical aspects of visual and performing arts such as sculpture, theatre, dance, and music. The course covers subjects like music theory, contemporary art history, theatrical performance, and digital arts. After a PhD in Fine Arts, one can pursue a career as an artist, art critic, curator, museum director, or professor in art schools.

PhD in Arts Jobs

The basic details of jobs after a PhD in Arts are as follows:

• Industry: A PhD in Arts can lead to jobs in research, design, academia, or related fields.
• Employment Demand: A PhD in Arts is in high demand, offering jobs like Market Research Analyst, Social Policy Analyst, Academic Consultant, and Professor.
• Average Salary: The average salary after a PhD in Arts varies depending on experience, industry, and location. The average salary is between INR 6- 10 lakhs per annum.

There are various job roles available for PhD holders in the Arts. As per Payscale, the average package of various job roles according to the years of experience is mentioned in the table below:

PhD in Arts FAQs